The Gwinnett Chamber Foundation (GCF) announces the launch of its new website, GwinnettChamberFoundation.org. With this launch, the Foundation is accepting applications for its inaugural Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification cohort. Those selected for this cohort will receive their certifications from the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC).

"The Gwinnett Chamber Foundation is committed to fostering economic inclusion for minority, veteran, and women-led small businesses in Gwinnett County," said Deirdra Cox, Executive Director. "Recognizing the contributions of these entrepreneurs to the local economy, the Foundation and its partners aim to provide essential resources and opportunities for their success."

University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Business Advisor and GCF Board Chair Aysha Treadwell added, “Small business is the backbone of our communities. It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to be part of an organization that intentionally supports small business owners in scaling and growing their business in Gwinnett.”

The GCF is a registered 501c3 organization dedicated to empowering minority, veteran, and women-led small business owners for next-level growth. The Foundation seeks to unlock a brighter future for this unique group of small businesses working with partners like the GMSDC, and other community leaders, to deliver much-needed financial support, mentorship, and guidance for success. 

As the nation’s most diverse county (Niche.com), Gwinnett faces disparities in access to capital for minority, veteran, and women-led small businesses. To address these disparities, the GCF advocates for targeted interventions, beginning with a certification program that delivers funds to qualifying small business leaders who are prepared to take that next step. Partnering with J.P. Morgan Chase through the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) - a national Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) - the Foundation and GMSDC can deliver these critical MBE certifications essential to economic prosperity. Applicants who do not meet the criteria for this year’s cohort can still receive resources to prepare for next year’s cohort through the Verizon LISC program.

Applicants interested in the MBE certification cohort can find detailed information on the Programs page of the newly launched website. The application window is open from April 15 to May 13, 2024.